what type of retainer will i get

• Bonded retainer. The first type is called a bonded retainer. It’s attached to your teeth after your braces are removed to keep them in place for the first few months ...
• Hawley retainer. The second type of retainer is the removable kind. Hawley retainers, also called wire retainers, can be taken out for cleaning and for eating meals.
• Clear plastic retainer. The third type of retainer is another removable kind. ...

Full Answer

What are the types of retainers?

• Traditional hawley retainers include a metal wire that goes in front of the teeth and colored acrylic that sits on the roof of your mouth. ...
• Clear essix (invisible) retainers are aligner-style retainers that are clear, comfortable, and esthetic. ...
• Fixed retainers are thin wires that are bonded and adapted behind the top and/or bottom front teeth.

What is the best retainer after braces?

• Hawley Retainers Also referred to as metal or wire retainers are removable types of retainers. These types of retainers can be used for both upper as well as lower teeth. ...
• Essix Retainers If you are looking for clear, removable retainers, then Essix retainers are the best choice. ...
• Fixed Retainers The fixed bonded wire retainers are fixed to the teeth. ...

What is the difference between retainers and braces?

Braces normally have to be used for between one year and three years. Retainers Retainers are normally used after your braces have been taken out and they are normally worn for around six months. Retainers are designed to help make sure that your teeth stay straight after your braces have been taken out. Types of retainers normally include fixed wire retainers and removable retainers.

Do retainers really work?

Retainers help prevent your teeth from shifting position after your orthodontic appliance (like braces) has been removed. Your teeth will naturally adjust from the forces applied to them from a normal daily activity like chewing – a retainer helps prevent this from occurring. Your teeth continue to shift slightly throughout your life.

Can you choose what type of retainer you get?

There are two basic types of retainers: removable and permanent. Your orthodontist helps you choose the best type for you based on what you needed braces for and any conditions you might have.

Is a clear or metal retainer better?

Metal, or traditional retainers, are best for everyone. These retainers are the most basic but they get the job done better than anyone else. If you have some jaw issues or are prone to have teeth problem, traditional metal retainers are your best bet.

How do you know what top retainer to get?

4:036:03How to Put On Retainers! The Orthodontist Way! Hacks ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn your hand and you can tell if you've got the top one is the front teeth on the top are slightlyMoreIn your hand and you can tell if you've got the top one is the front teeth on the top are slightly bigger than the rest of your teeth you want to hold it.

Which retainer is best for upper teeth?

Hawley Retainers These types of retainers can be used for both upper as well as lower teeth. These retainers are fully removable. Orthodontists recommend that you should take out Hawley retainers while eating or consuming sugary drinks.

Which retainers are more expensive?

Metal retainers may be slightly more expensive, but more durable. But plastic retainers are easy to replace, comfortable to wear, and nearly invisible when worn.

Are your teeth supposed to touch with retainer?

Essix retainers don't allow your teeth to touch as they naturally would, so the retainer may feel very strange at first. Permanent retainers may be difficult to floss and may feel uncomfortable on your tongue, requiring dental wax to ease discomfort.

Is it OK to only wear my top retainer?

Some orthodontic patients need to just wear one retainer on the bottom or on the top, but some patients might need both. Typically at first, you will wear the retainer all day long and then you will most likely only have to wear it at night to sleep. Keep in mind that each individual treatment plan is different.

Should my retainer touch the roof of my mouth?

Is your retainer supposed to touch the top of your mouth? At first, it might feel like there is a space between an upper retainer and the top of your mouth. As the retainer settles over a couple of days this inclination will disappear. Try not to flip the retainer with your tongue.

How long do metal retainers last?

A bonded retainer on your upper teeth may last up to three years, while a lower bonded retainer will last longer, as this part of the mouth doesn't see as much activity. Even if it's been a short time since the retainers' installation, the wires can become unbonded to the teeth without you realizing it.

Do metal retainers straighten teeth?

The million-dollar question you may be asking: do retainers straighten teeth like other orthodontics? The short answer is no. They don't apply the steady force over time needed to make major changes to your teeth' position. Instead, they simply hold your teeth in place.

Can you eat with metal retainers?

Wearing your retainers while eating is optional, but encouraged. If you wish to remove your retainers, make sure they are placed in their protective case and stored in a safe place. NEVER wrap your retainers in a napkin or tissue or place them unprotected in your pocket.

How long does a clear retainer last?

The Clear Retainer Also like clear aligners, these retainers aren't made to last forever. If they become loose, warped, or cracked, they should be replaced. With care, they can last from six months to several years.

What are the different types of retainers?

Having retainers is something quite a lot of people experiencein different ways. There are actually many kinds of orthodontic retainers that someone could have, such as removable retainers, permanent retainers, fixed retainers, clear plastic retainers, clear retainers, and Essix retainers, with each retainer type being better for certain people ...

Why are retainers used?

That’s why retainers were invented—to help straighten and perfect teeth that are crooked or just need a little help to become straight. Having retainers is something quite a lot of people experiencein different ways. There are actually many kinds of orthodontic retainers that someone could have, such as removable retainers, permanent retainers, fixed retainers, clear plastic retainers, clear retainers, and Essix retainers, with each retainer type being better for certain people and certain situations. To help you understand the different types of retainers that are available, as well as which ones might be right for you, we’ve created this list full of detailed information and everything you need to know about orthodontic retainers.

What is the best aligner for teeth?

These aligners are great for people who just need a little bit more work to help straighten their teeth perfectly.Invisalign is best for those who need a little bit of adjustment on their teeth or for those who are almost done completing their braces treatment.

Why is Invisalign not preferred?

If a conventional brace setup is needed (and Invisalign isn’t preferred because of crowding or crookedness of the teeth), but you have money to spend on making sure these retainers aren’t as noticeably seen, these retainersare great options for you.

What is Damon retainer?

Damon retainers. A type of retainers that is becoming increasingly popular for dentists and patients alike, Damon retainers are considered to be a less orthodontist intensive, gentler treatment for patients. These retainers are self-ligating, meaning they can move and adjust on their own instead of an orthodontist having to do it for you.

What is the wire that connects teeth to brackets called?

This wire is what helps straighten your teeth, as it applies pressure toyour teeth and slowly straightensthem out. This wire, also called an archwire, is connected to the metal brackets with tiny elastic o-rings.

Where are lingual retainers installed?

However, while conventional retainers are installed on the fronts of your teeth, lingual retainers are attached to the backof your teeth.

What are the different types of retainers?

There are multiple options to suit style and appearance preferences, but retainers fall into three basic categories: permanent and two types of removable styles. Permanent retainers.

What is the best retainer for a patient?

Here are a few factors to consider when deciding what type of retainer is best for you. Remember, your orthodontist might recommend the best path forward, and it is important to discuss your options thoroughly. Effectiveness. All three types of retainers generally are very effective when used properly. Much depends on a person’s individual habits. ...

Where To Begin When Selecting a Retainer?

Your dentist and orthodontist can give you guidance regarding the effectiveness of each option, but there are also personal considerations. You should ask yourself:

What is permanent retainer?

Permanent retainers. Permanent retainers go by several names, such as bonded wire retainers, fixed retainers or lingual retainer wire. These types of retainers are considered permanent, because while an orthodontist can remove them, patients cannot. Permanent retainers are bonded to the back of the patient’s teeth.

How to clean retainers?

Proper care of your retainer is critical. With a permanent retainer, plaque can build up, so excellent oral hygiene is a must. For removable retainers, here are a few simple cleaning tips: 1 Soak them.#N#When you aren’t wearing them, your retainers should be soaking to keep them moist and clean. 2 Use baking soda.#N#Water alone won’t thoroughly clean your retainers. Try a bit of baking soda, which will clean them naturally while also killing bacteria as they soak. 3 Brushing.#N#Just like your teeth, your retainers require regular brushing. Use a brush other than your toothbrush, and a solution such as denture cleaner, not toothpaste. Gentle brushing will not damage your retainers, and it is crucial for removing tartar buildup. Work brushing into your routine at least every few days. 4 Don’t leave them where pets can get them.#N#Remember that consulting with your orthodontist is the best way to decide which type of retainer is best for you. With the right guidance, you’ll find the option perfectly suited for your teeth and your lifestyle.

How do Hawley retainers work?

They work by slowly maneuvering teeth into place or holding them in place, and they can be adjusted as needed . Hawley retainers are removable. Clear retainers. These types of nearly invisible retainers have become increasingly popular in recent years, as the technology has dramatically improved.

What is a Hawley retainer?

Hawley retainers. Hawley retainers may be the most widely recognized type of retainer. Commonly referred to as wire retainers, this style has been around for decades and continues to be a reliable option for orthodontists. They are made from a molded acrylic arch and wire, custom-fitted to the wearer’s mouth.

When are Retainers Necessary?

New retainers are custom-made for your upper and lower teeth directly after braces or clear aligner treatment is complete.

What is removable retainer?

Removable retainers are clear or metal appliances that only need to be worn at night. Unlike fixed appliances, you can remove these retainers at any time.

What is Relapse and Retention?

Relapse refers to the partial or full return of pre-treatment malocclusion (teeth misalignment) following successful orthodontic treatment.

What is retention in orthodontics?

Retention refers to the phase of orthodontic treatment that minimizes the risk of tooth movement and misalignment following the removal of clear aligners or braces.

What is clear aligner?

Clear aligners (invisible aligners) are a removable type of orthodontic treatment that corrects misaligned or crooked teeth. Invisible aligners are a flexible and convenient alternative to braces.

Why are clear retainers uncomfortable?

Clear retainers can cause more discomfort than Hawley (metal) retainers because your teeth will not touch naturally. A Vivera retainer is another type of clear retainer that holds the teeth in place after Invisalign treatment. This retainer is made exclusively for Invisalign patients.

How much does a Vivera retainer cost?

Vivera (Invisalign) retainers can cost as low as $660 for four sets. Permanent (bonded) retainers cost $150-$500 for one or up to $1,000 per set. However, bonded retainers are usually included in the price of treatment if done at an orthodontist's office.

What are the different types of retainers?

Different Types of Retainers. There are a few different types of retainers including removable and permanent. Each retainer has its pros and cons, but they each serve the same purpose – to keep teeth straight after braces.

What is a permanent retainer?

Permanent Retainers. A fixed lingual retainer consists of a wire bonded to the back side of your teeth. I typically recommend a permanent retainer if the teeth were very rotated, crowded, or had a lot of spacing between them before treatment.

How Often Do You Have to Wear A Retainer?

After that, I recommend they wear their retainer every night. Remember, your teeth will stay in place only if you continue to wear your retainer as prescribed! If you don’t want to have lengthy orthodontic treatment again, then remember to wear your retainer.

Why are retainers important?

Retainers are very important…especially if you don’t want to have braces again! Our team can align your teeth and move them where we need to, but after your braces come off we still need something in place to stabilize all that progress we made. Teeth can shift throughout your life. Any small force over time can cause small shifts in alignment and placement, and those small shifts can lead to bigger shifts. Retainers help prevent these shifts from occurring after braces are removed.

What is a VFR retainer?

Removable Retainers. A vacuum form retainer (VFR) is a clear horseshoe-shaped piece of material that is intimately shaped to fit over your teeth. The benefits of VFR retainers include that they’re clear and aesthetic (great for photos!), comfortable and not as bulky as other retainers.

Why are Hawley retainers so good?

Hawley retainers are great because they are durable and we have a greater ability to make adjustments with them. For example, if a tooth or two were to shift slightly, we can sometimes adjust the wire to re-straighten the teeth. You often can’t do that with other types of retainers.

Do you need retainers if you don't want braces?

Retainers are crucial if you don’t want to wear braces again to correct shifting! Any retainer is a good option as long as you’re compliant. Watch this short video, then read on to learn the types of retainers and explore which one may be the best option for you.

What is the most common retainer for Invisalign?

There are a number of different types of retainers available in orthodontics. The most commonly used retainer after invisalign treatment is the Vivera retainer, which is a clear, removable, plastic retainer similar to what the invisalign aligners look like (without the buttons/attachments on the teeth). Some patients will need to get permanent/fixed metal wire retainers that are put behind the teeth to help with retention, but will likely also need to have clear removable retainers as well. Your dentist will be the one to advise you which retainer is best for your particular case.

Do you need a retainer for a bruxer?

For others, especially those who clench their teeth at night, a more sturdy retainer will be necessary. If you are a clencher (Bruxer) at night time, then a type of Night Guard appliance may be indicated which can also serve as a retainer for your teeth.

Can you get Hawley retainers after Invisalign?

You absolutely can request Hawley retainers after Invisalign. Yes they will last a lot longer and long term cost will be a lot less. One drawback is there a visible wire is a part of that type of retainer. Teeth need stabilization after orthodontic movement is done.

Is Invisalign stronger than other clear aligners?

The material is 30% stronger than other clear retainer materials, which helps maintain your teeth in the final position. Because the retainers are custom made from a scan of your teeth using the same state-of-the-art technology as Invisalign clear aligners, you will benefit from a more precise and comfortable fit.

What is a retainer for teeth?

There are two main types of teeth retainer your dentist might recommend: a permanent retainer (also known as a bonded or fixed retainer) or one that can be removed such as an Essix or Hawley.

How much does a retainer cost?

Teeth retainers cost anywhere from $100 to $500 per set without insurance. Depending on your dentist, orthodontic retainer costs can vary quite a bit. The cost can also depend on location, and what type you are recommended to use. Here’s a rough guide to how much different dentist retainers cost with a private dentist:

What is the difference between a retainer and a night guard?

While they may look similar, retainers, mouth guards, and night guards are all used for different reasons. Retainers are what help keep your teeth in position after orthodontic care, while mouthguards are designed to keep the teeth safe from injury. Mouthguards are made of flexible plastic that protects the jaw and teeth during physical activity and sports. Alternatively, night guards are more firm than a mouthguard and made for patients that clench or grind their teeth at night. Nightguards protect the teeth and jaw from pain and damage caused by the grinding.

How many retainers are there for Vivera Invisalign?

Note that prices are for a single device, except for Vivera Invisalign retainers which come in a set of 4.

What is spring aligner?

Spring retainers, or spring aligners, can help with simple movements of the teeth. They look similar to a normal Hawley retainer, for teeth but they have extra parts that move one or more teeth slightly or help to prevent the teeth from overcrowding or twisting. Invisalign retainers look similar to Essix devices.

Why do you wear a retainer after braces?

Wearing a retainer after braces helps to hold your teeth in the correct alignment. Both removable and permanent retainers will keep your teeth straight for years to come, as long as you keep wearing them as your dentist advises!

Why do people prefer Essix retainers?

Some people prefer this type because they are less noticeable than wire retainers. Essix retainer costs are similar to the Hawley style, but they may not last as long.

Why do you need a retainer caseor?

Because retainers cost a lot of money, you’ll need to keep them safe from damage or accidental disposal (especially if they are clear)! Purchase a retainer caseor two so you’ll always have an appropriate place to secure them, whether on your bedside table, purse or travel bag. This is especially important if you have pets, because dogs love to chew on them!

What happens if your retainer breaks?

If your fixed retainer breaks without your knowledge, it can go undetected until your next appointment and cause your teeth to relapse, sliding back to their original positions which can only be corrected by costly Invisalign refinements or a whole new treatment plan.

How much does a Vivera retainer cost?

However, this does come at a cost, as many providers will charge between $500 and $600 for the Vivera retainer set.

What is an Essix retainer?

The Essix Retainer. Essix retainers closely resemble the clear aligners you’ve been wearing throughout your treatment. They are made with the same thin, transparent plastic with which every Invisalign patient is familiar and are very popular because of their durability.

What does it mean when your retainer is cracked?

If you notice that your retainer is cracked or warped, this is a sign that it’s time to get a replacement. Once they lose their composition, they are no longer as effective at retaining your smile. Continuing to wear a damaged retainer can lead to regression, so contact your provider to initiate the process of procuring new retainers.

Can you floss with Invisalign?

Regardless of which retainer you choose, daily flossing is crucial to prevent Invisalign gum damage. Removable retainers like the Vivera and Essix take the hassle out of flossing, but it’s still possible to floss with a fixed retainer using a floss threader to get in between and under the fixed retainer wire. Once you get the floss through, follow the classic flossing regime of getting down below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Repeat this same process for every tooth that is attached to your permanent retainer.

Can you wear a permanent retainer with Invisalign?

If your fixed retainer breaks without your knowledge, it can go undetected until your next appointment and cause your teeth to relapse, sliding back to their original positions which can only be corrected by costly Invisalign refinementsor a whole new treatment plan. If you do need to wear the permanent retainer, consider asking your Orthodontist if you can have an Essix retainer made to fit on top of your permanent retainer to protect it from damage.

What is the best retainer?

Hawley retainers are often the best bang for your buck, although they aren't the most aesthetic option because they have a metal bar that goes across the front of your teeth. However, they are the most durable kind of retainer and they're easy to clean. They're also quite affordable, ranging from $150 to $300.

How to order retainers online?

To order a retainer online, you first order an impression kit. Then you can make molds of your teeth at home and send these back to the company, and they custom-make your retainers in a dental lab. Once they're finished, they'll send your retainers back to you directly at home.

When should I get a replacement retainer?

If you lose or break your retainer, you should make sure to order a new one as soon as possible. This is important because after orthodontic treatment, your teeth will continue to move.

How much does a new retainer cost?

The cost of replacement retainers will vary depending on the kind of retainer you get and where you get it. Let's have a look at some of the common types of retainers and the cost of replacing them.

Why do you need to replace retainers?

That's because your teeth will begin to move out of alignment, and you may even need to get braces again.

How long do Hawley retainers last?

Aside from losing or breaking a retainer, some types of retainers require you to change them every few months or every couple of years. Hawley retainers can go longer than clear plastic retainers before needing to replaced – around 5 to 8 years. And permanent retainers can last 20 years or more – making it the longest-lasting – before they break or become unglued.

Why is it important to not put off replacing retainers?

It's important to not put off replacing your retainer because the longer you do, the more your teeth will shift out of place. You'll also need to get new molds made of your teeth, which could make the price of your replacement retainers go up.

Where to use removable retainers?

Removable retainers are typically used for the top teeth and permanent retainers on the lower teeth, but retainer use depends on what is best for your teeth.

What is a retainer made of?

Permanent or fixed retainers are made of a metal wire that is glued to your teeth. Usually, this wire is smooth and solid or has a braided texture. It’s attached to your teeth and adjusted to your bite to keep your teeth from shifting or becoming crooked. are often recommended by orthodontists after braces to prevent your teeth from moving back ...

Why do dentists remove retainers?

Your dentist or orthodontist may remove your permanent retainer if it irritates your gums or teeth or causes too much plaque or tartar buildup on the teeth around it.

How to shimmy floss between teeth?

Use a 6-inch piece of floss along with a floss threader to shimmy the floss between two of your front bottom teeth, taking one end of your floss between your fingers and the other end in the threader.

How long does it take to bond a retainer?

It can sometimes take up to an hour to bond a retainer to your teeth. All you have to do for a removable retainer is get a quick impression made that your orthodontist can use to fashion one that fits your mouth. Brushing and flossing around a permanent retainer requires extra effort.

Why is a retainer called a lingual wire?

The retainer is called a lingual wire because it’s glued or bonded to the back surface oof your teeth. It’s easier to securely attach the bonding material to lower teeth such as the cuspids (canine teeth) for effective long-term use.

How long does it take to get a retainer out?

Pros of removable retainers. You can take them out at any time, such as when you’re eating or cleaning your teeth. It only takes 30 seconds to 1 minute to get an impression (mold) of your mouth to make a removable retainer that will last for years.

Selecting The Right Retainer

Where to Begin When Selecting A retainer?

Types of Retainers

• From invisible to wire, retainers come in a variety of styles. There are multiple options to suit style and appearance preferences, but retainers fall into three basic categories: permanent and two types of removable styles. 1. Permanent retainers. Permanent retainers go by several names, such as bonded wire retainers, fixed retainers or lingual re...

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Making The Right Choice

Care Considerations